A DUI in Colorado is serious, but when alcohol or drugs contribute to an accident that injures or kills someone, the consequences can be life-changing. In Larimer County, DUI related Vehicular Assault and Vehicular Homicide cases are treated very seriously by prosecutors, and the penalties can include years in prison, substantial fines, license revocation, and a permanent criminal record.
If you or a loved one is facing charges in Fort Collins, Loveland, Windsor, Berthoud, Timnath, Estes Park, or Wellington, it’s critical to understand how these cases work locally, the applicable laws, and why hiring an experienced attorney immediately is essential.
Vehicular Assault Lawyer in Colorado and Larimer County
Vehicular Assault occurs when a driver causes serious bodily injury to another person while operating a vehicle under the influence of alcohol or drugs.
Under C.R.S. 18-3-205, a person commits Vehicular Assault if they:
- Drive a vehicle while impaired (DUI), or
- Operate a vehicle recklessly or negligently, and
- Cause serious bodily injury to another person.
Penalties
Vehicular Assault in Colorado is generally a Class 4 or Class 5 felony, with possible penalties in Larimer County including:
- 2–6 years in prison (Class 4) or 1–3 years (Class 5)
- Fines up to $500,000
- License suspension or revocation
- Mandatory DUI and/or other mental health programs
- Restitution to the injured party
Larimer County prosecutors in Fort Collins, Loveland, and Estes Park take these cases seriously, often seeking maximum penalties when injuries are severe.
Fort Collins Vehicular Homicide Attorney: What is Vehicular Homicide in Colorado?
Vehicular Homicide occurs when a driver causes the death of another person while under the influence or driving recklessly.
Under C.R.S. 18-3-106, a person may be charged with Vehicular Homicide if:
- They were driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs, or
- They engaged in reckless or careless driving, and
- Their actions directly caused a fatality.
Penalties
Vehicular Homicide is typically a Class 3 or Class 4 felony, with Larimer County penalties including:
- 4–12 years in prison (Class 3) or 2–6 years (Class 4)
- Fines up to $750,000
- License revocation, often permanent for multiple DUI offenses
- Mandatory DUI treatment programs
- Restitution to the victim’s family
If drugs or alcohol are suspected, the class 3 felony Vehicular Homicide will be charged.
Why DUI-Related Vehicular Crimes Are So Serious in Larimer County
Even a first-time DUI can carry fines and license suspension. But when an accident causes serious injury or death:
- You face a felony criminal record
- You could spend years in prison
- Civil lawsuits may follow for damages
- Professional, personal, and travel restrictions can be imposed
Larimer County prosecutors pursue these cases aggressively to protect public safety and hold impaired drivers accountable.
What You Should Do if You’ve Been Charged with a DUI Related Vehicular Assault or Homicide in Loveland
If you’re charged with DUI related Vehicular Assault or Homicide in Larimer County:
- Do not speak to police without an attorney
- Do not admit guilt or apologize at the scene or in statements
- Do not attempt to resolve matters directly with victims
An experienced criminal defense attorney can:
- Examine accident and toxicology evidence
- Identify procedural errors or challenges to the DUI test
- Work with expert witnesses and accident reconstruction professionals
- Negotiate possible charge reductions or alternative sentencing
Every moment matters, especially in high-stakes felony cases.